Question of the Day – Wednesday January 17, 2018

Posted January 17, 2018

Question- It is unclear if PPIs are adequately efficacious for the treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux in infants and neonates and PPI treatment in this age group should be reserved for cases with serious and proven pathology. What are the adverse effects of PPIs that have been noted in this age group?

Answer: The cited article notes “Although the toxicity profiles of PPIs are not well understood particularly in children, PPIs have been associated with increased risks of gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infection, vitamin B deficiency, hypomagnesemia, bone fractures, and rebound hyperacidity after discontinuation.” (DeBruyne P and Ito S. Toxicity of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors in children. 2018 Arch Dis Child 103: 78-82)